Tyson Conn Finlayson
September 1st, 2023
Tyson Conn Finlayson (Jan 24, 1970 - Sept 1, 2023)
Tyson had his own star that he took his bearings from. Let that star be his guide now. Tyson left this world all too soon leaving behind a comet trail of dynamic energy, zest for life, and remarkable accomplishments. Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, Tyson’s life was enriched by living in diverse communities including Moose Jaw, Prince George, Haida Gwaii (Q.C.Is.), Smithers, Mission, Maple Ridge, and Vancouver. Tyson died unexpectedly in Vancouver, BC. He will be dearly missed by his loving parents Brenda and Forbes whose lives were enriched immeasurably by having raised him. Left to mourn are his devoted long-time partner Jeanette, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins throughout Western Canada and Thailand.
Graduating from Smithers Secondary School, his career in construction and painting took him to southern BC. Known for his exceptional athletic prowess, Tyson excelled as an individual athlete. He made a million memories with the Smithers Alpine Ski Team, Motocross Club and as a proud founding member of the Smithers BMX Club. He raced down mountainsides at speeds he would be ticketed for if he was a car, sprinted to hundreds of BMX bicycle finish lines to earn provincial and national titles, and bolted off the start lines of every motocross track in BC to victory as BC Provincial Motocross Champion. During his racing careers he won more trophies and medals than most can dream of. Motocross racing was the love of his life. Legendary for his phenomenal strength, he exhibited grit and determination in boxing, wrestling, weightlifting, and arm wrestling. Tyson played to win.
Tyson was gifted with a gentler side. His creative and artistic talents kept him at his drawing board winning top art student for many years in a row. He designed and created one-of-a-kind silk-screen printed T-shirts. Always concerned for the welfare of animals and birds, he was passionate about his cats and his adopted feathered friends, Nucumb his pet seagull and his lunch buddy Canuck the Crow. Bird whisperer was his second calling.
Tyson’s magnetic personality was contagious to everyone he met. He had an uncanny ability to bring people out, engage them with his infectious energy and win them over. He gave generously to those in need. Tyson has joined the star that he took his bearings from, released from the challenges this life presented to him. As an old soul, Tyson’s out there driving his favorite vintage Cadillac riding throughout the cosmos with the top down, enjoying every breeze.
A private Celebration of Life was held. As an expression of sympathy, please consider a contribution to the Tyson Finlayson Memorial Page at St. Paul’s Foundation of Vancouver in support of St. Paul’s Hospital Road to Recovery Initiative at:
donate.helpstpauls.com/goto/TysonFinlayson
I worked with Brenda during Tyson’s teenage years and was sad to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to Brenda & Forbes at the loss of their son and only child.